Mason Jar Bouquet

Mason jars serve many purposes, are one of the fastest-growing trends for displaying flowers and are a favorite amongst Pinterest enthusiasts. Although it may seem very different, arranging flowers in a mason jar is very similar to arranging flowers in a vase, but there are some differences as the height of the mason jar is typically shorter. With these step-by-step instructions, Ann Marie Pierce from Imperial Florist/1-800-Flowers in Baldwin will tell you everything you need to about creating the perfect mason jar fall floral arrangement, Amber Waves™.

2. Cut your stems to be just a bit taller than the height of the mason jar. Make sure you don’t cut them too short or they may start to sink into the arrangement. As a rule of (green) thumb, it’s better to have the stems too long than too short.If they are too long you can always adjust them by cutting them shorter, but once they are too short there is no way to make them longer.

image: Stand up your greens the right way credit: 1-800-flowers

3. Now that the mason jar is filled with water start adding your leaves and greens. Add the stems into the mason jar at an angle (about 45 degrees) to form a grid in the mason jar so that the stems can help support one another. If the stems are placed in the mason jar straight versus at an angle, the arrangement may appear stiff and will not have the same volume.

4. After adding the greens, add floral fillers to the mason jar. For Amber Waves™, we use bupleurum and solidago.

image: Roses take center stage in this arrangement credit: 1-800-flowers

5. Once the mason jar starts to look fuller with the leaves and floral fillers, it is time to add your main flowers like roses. Save any delicate flowers, like the alstroemeria (also known as peruvian lilies), for later. Delicate stems can break if stronger stems are placed over them. If you are using roses like we used in Amber Waves™, make sure you take off any guard petals that may be green or brown on the outside to ensure the most beautiful arrangement possible.

6. Add a little extra fall flare. For Amber Waves ™, we use unique flare like glycerin fall leaves like oak and dried lotus pods to help fill the arrangement and make it look in-season.

7. Take a good look at your arrangement and inspect it for any empty spaces. If you notice any bare spaces, add more flowers, filler, or flare accordingly. Be sure not to make your arrangement too full as to not “suffocate” the flowers by making them too tight. They need room to “breathe.”